OXFORD United's preparation time for their next home league game will be reduced after the Leasing.com Trophy clash was confirmed for a Wednesday night.

Karl Robinson's side will now face Exeter City on December 4, with a 7pm kick-off.

It has been put back due to the Grecians' Emirates FA Cup second round tie at home to Hartlepool United being moved to Sunday, December 1.

United turned down the option to have their Cup tie at Walsall played that day, which would have meant a small additional broadcast fee.

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Robinson was keen to avoid playing three matches in less than a week, culminating in the Sky Bet League One game at home to Shrewsbury Town.

But the Wednesday date means the lead-up to the Shrews fixture is not ideal.

Robinson said: "I asked their (Exeter's) manager if he would change it, but they didn’t want to.

"We felt the Saturday game was important."

United were pleased with the outcome of last night's FA Cup replay, with the round trip to Walsall 280 miles less than if Darlington had prevailed.

He said: "That’s saved an extra six hours on the coach.

"We’re in for a busy time that week, but hopefully by the time we play Shrewsbury we’ll be into the last few of the Leasing.com and into round three of the FA Cup.

"That’s our objective."